*UPDATE* Veterinary Emergency Team Continues Efforts in Bastrop

SEPTEMBER 10, 2011 - The Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team
is continuing their response effort in Bastrop, and have now moved
their base of operations closer to the front line on the southeast
side of the community. Their continuing mission is providing
support and care for search and rescue dogs belonging to Texas Task
Force-1, as well as triage for animals brought in from areas that
have been cleared for animal control officials to enter.

"We now have both of our response trailers in operation," said
Dr. Wesley Bissett, assistant professor of large animal clinical
sciences at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine &
Biomedical Sciences. "In addition, we have a field service vehicle
available which allows us to be more flexible in our response.
Primarily we continue to see small animals with burn injuries, but
we are prepared for whatever comes our way. We are beginning to
rotate some of our staff this weekend, and will have three new
veterinary medical students joining our efforts."

Bissett noted that a response to animals in the midst of a
disaster this size is only possible through organized cooperation,
coordination, and teamwork. Dr. Terry Hensley, assistant executive
director of the Texas Animal Health Commission, agrees with
Bissett.

"We are glad we have such a reliable partner in the CVM VET,"
said Hensley. "Our organizations have a variety of skills that
complement each other in our shared mission of addressing the needs
of animals in disaster situations."